Wat Chetawan | Thai Buddhist Chetawan Temple

September 20, 2025

Synopsis

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Wat Chetawan is a Thai temple in Petaling District, Selangor, Malaysia. The temple is situated at Jalan Pantai, off Jalan Gasing in Petaling Jaya. It was built in 1957 and officiated by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the King of Thailand at the time.

Wat Chetawan (Thai: วัดเชตวัน; RTGS: Wat Chetawan) (also called as the Chetawan Buddhist Temple) is a Thai temple in Petaling District, Selangor, Malaysia.

Wat Chetawan | Kuala Lumpur | Petaling Jaya

Wat Chetawan: Thai royal temple in Petaling Jaya with ornate designs, golden spires, and authentic Thai Buddhist elements.

Wat Chetawan is a serene and culturally rich Thai Buddhist temple that beckons travelers with its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance.

Location & Origin

Situated in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Wat Chetawan was built in the 1950s with the patronage of the Thai King.

Address: No.24, Jalan Pantai 9/7, Seksyen 10 Petaling Jaya, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Phone: +60 3-7955 2443
Hours: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Founder: Phra Kru Palat Vieng

What is Wat Chetawan known for?

Wat Chetawan is a remarkable symbol of Thai-Malaysian cultural ties, showcasing the rich history and traditions of Thai Buddhism. Built with contributions from both Malaya and Thailand, the temple’s significance is further highlighted by visits from Thai royalty, including King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit.

Architectural Highlights

The temple features intricate Thai-style architecture, golden stupas, and elaborate carvings. Large, ornate Buddhist temple complex with traditional Thai architecture & popular festivals.

Cultural Significance

Wat Chetawan is a serene and culturally rich Thai Buddhist temple that beckons travelers with its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance. It is the official Thai Buddhist temple in Malaysia and plays a major role in Thai-Malaysian cultural relations.

Visitor Experience

Visitors are welcomed by serene grounds, monks chanting, and cultural festivities like Songkran.

Festivals Celebrated

Songkran, Loy Krathong, Wesak Day, Asalha Puja, Kathina Ceremony. Officiated in 1957 by the former king of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadej, this temple is a popular destination every Wesak Day

Specialty / Unique Features

Official Thai Buddhist temple in Selangor; recognized by the Thai royal family and features ornate Thai architecture with royal emblems.

How to Reach Wat Chetawan

By Car / Taxi (Easiest Option)

Start from Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC / Bukit Bintang):
- Enter the Federal Highway (E10) towards Petaling Jaya.
Exit at Jalan Universiti:
- Follow signs for Section 10 / Section 11, Petaling Jaya.
Head towards Jalan Pantai Baru → Jalan Gasing:
- The temple is located along Jalan Pantai, Section 10, PJ.
Look for the temple gate:
- Wat Chetawan is near University Malaya and has a distinctive Thai-style golden roof and statues.
- Parking is available near the temple.

🕑 Estimated travel time: ~20–30 minutes from KL city center (depending on traffic).

🚆 By Train + 🚖/🚌

Take the LRT Kelana Jaya Line:
- Board from KL Sentral or any station on the Kelana Jaya line.
- Get down at Taman Jaya Station.
From Taman Jaya LRT Station:
- Take a short taxi/Grab ride (~5–7 minutes) to the temple.
- Alternatively, you can take RapidKL bus heading towards Section 10 and walk a short distance.

🚌 By Bus

From KL Sentral / Pasar Seni area, take RapidKL bus T790 or PJ City buses towards Jalan Gasing / Section 10 PJ.
Get down near Wat Chetawan stop (ask the driver for the Thai Temple stop).
Walk 5 minutes to the temple entrance.

Direction Tips

Landmark Nearby: University of Malaya, Assunta Hospital, Jalan Gasing.
Navigation Apps: Use Google Maps or Waze, type “Wat Chetawan PJ” for the exact pin.
Best Time to Visit: Morning (8 AM – 12 PM) or evening (after 4 PM). Avoid peak traffic hours if coming by car.
Footwear: Shoes must be removed before entering prayer halls.
Dress Code: Modest attire (avoid shorts and sleeveless tops).